First Book

First Book is a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization that provides books to children in the United States and Canada who lack access to age-appropriate books. You'd probably guess, and guess correctly, that these children needing books live in lower-income communities, where literacy rates are at their lowest. The First Book Web site provides a page of literacy resources you can browse to better inform yourself of literacy issues and find sources to help get kids reading. You can't learn to read if you have nothing appropriate to read. First Book provides "new books to children in preschools and after-school programs, mentoring and tutoring programs, shelters and day care centers, and beyond" in order to empower teachers and mentors. High-quality books help educators and leaders provide higher quality education.

If you were lucky enough to have books in your childhood, you likely remember your favorites, or even what book got you hooked. Every child should have a chance at a bigger world, one simply and easily found in books. If it hasn't already popped in your head, like the Reading Rainbow theme song says, "I can go anywhere . . . I can be anything. Take a look, it's in a book. . . ." Few scenes are more hopeful, heartening, and soothing than a roomful of children reading. For sure this is a sentimental paragraph, but it doesn't mean it isn't true.

So how do you help? You have a few options. You can make a monetary donation on their Web site (which also provides a mailing address if you prefer to send a check). $10.00 buys 5 books. You can buy gifts that benefit First Book. You can start a Books for Kids, Books for Keeps fund-raising Web page. If you're a qualifying organization, you can buy books from the First Book Marketplace. You can spread the word by sending an e-card or by placing a First Book link on your Web site. The "Get Involved" page also provides information on volunteering, keeping informed, and offers special opportunities for companies and organizations.

Education is the cure for many - if not all - of society's ills. Reading is the beginning. Every child deserves a bedtime story.